I started MM #125 in November, 2014, and got it producing $$ Novermber of '15. Since then, I have been overwhelmed with work. I built it to make custom kayak paddles, and it is perfect for the task. A friend helped me build it, and his company needs CNC cut parts, which is keeping me more than busy. I've had 3 days off this year. My schedule should open up a bit October through December.

It's time for another CNC router. I've looked around, and I still think the MM is the best choice for me. If I build it, I can fix it, with off the shelf parts.

#126 has a PMDX 126, ESS, and is running Mach3. Mach3 is causing me issues. I have a Mach4 licence, but have been unable to have it play nice with my spindle.

I read thru your build thread and also your pdf about EMC. Nice work, and that is also a tempting system. The tipping point for me is I'm using Ger21's 2010 screen set on Mach3, which works fantastic for what I need. He has a very similar screenset for UCCNC, so I'm hoping my feeble brain has less to wrap around while changing systems.

I'm also reading about the wonders of some of the new Teknic drives. Unlike my first build, budget is not the primary decision driver this time. I need a solid, production level machine. (However, my first machine fits that description.)

Chuck I would love to see a build based on the Acron Controller and Teknic drives. You know you may be able to do that build direct drive at first just to see how well those servos micro step. You could add belt drives after if they need more resolution.

I too would also like to see an Acorn/Teknic build, and looked at doing just that. I don't want to be the trail blazer. (OK, I want to follow others proven set ups). Except for moving to the UC300eth & UB1 motherboard, this will mostly be a larger copy of my first machine. I like having redundancy.

If I like the UC300 set up, I'llswap put the ESS in my first MM. I might also replace the current PMDX-126.

Parts are arriving, and my kitchen table project just needs a power plug to test. It's hard to believe I don't have at least one extra plug around here. Pics coming, but first I'm taking a mental health break and going sailing :-)

Day3.
OK, this is my other MM. I got a hold pending change order, so it's time for a new spoilboard. I glued this one on in January and I couldn't get things warm enough long enough for the glue to hold. Emergency fix was screws, which led to unhappiness. This is the first opprotunity I've had to take the machine out of service long enough to change the spoilboard.

I left this afternoon for a well earned respite in the north woods. I just received this message from my dad:

"Watch out when you come in the front door.
The package delivery guy DROPPED a package on the porch, (loud enough that I went to investigate the noise.)
I couldn't open the screen door because it was blocked.
I can't lift it, but I got it just inside the door (about shin high).
Check for damage when you open it."

I'm guessing my MM laser parts just arrived. I'll be there Tuesday. (Dad was able to move the box inside.)

Hi there guys,
Im in the very early stages of my planning for the MM. I am a complete noob to the CNC world. Would building a machine using Acorn and ClearPath be an unwise decision for me? I have been reading a lot of very good things about both of these products. Like everyone else Id like high performance, with ease of use. Im building a 4x8 wood router. Thanks

Chuck good to hear you keep your machine so busy you need a second. Paul, I asked that same question nov 2015 after I purchased the plans, there has been atleast one here to upgrade from steppers to clearpath. When buyingparts over last 2 yrs Complete noob to cnc like you I decided to get a cheaper stepper kit and microphone cable atleast to learn how it all works, as soon as it is finished and brings in $2500 it will be getting centroid and clearpath.